Upper Mustang Trek Permit and Best Time to Visit Mustang!

Upper Mustang is a trekker's paradise hidden in Nepal's beautiful Himalayas. Exploring the remote Upper Mustang region, however, is not possible without an Upper Mustang Permit. This land was not open to the public until 1992, and only a few visits were permitted. The Nepalese government abolished the embargo only a few decades ago, allowing visitors to explore the region. Even today, all visitors must get Upper Mustang Trekking Permits in order to enter the zone.

The Upper Mustang trekking permit was created to conserve the region's cultural history and tranquil nature. The permit restriction reduces overpopulation of visitors in the higher elevations of Upper Mustang and aids in the preservation of the natural environment. Furthermore, the permit charge varies per season and is higher during peak season. Because acquiring the permit may take up to a week, it is critical to apply for it ahead of time.Moreover, the process can only be completed with the assistance of a registered tour operator.

Furthermore, solo hiking is not permitted in the Upper Mustang region, and you must be accompanied by a qualified guide. These stringent laws aid in the conservation of the landscape and the safety of tourists. Regardless of the rules, the Upper Mustang hike is well worth the effort. Furthermore, your journey will be less stressful if you are aware of the permit criteria and the process for acquiring one ahead of time.

Requirements for Obtaining Upper Mustang Trekking Permits:

To begin,you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of admission into Nepal.

A Nepal visa with sufficient validity is required. The visa can be obtained upon arrival in Nepal or from the Nepalese embassy in your home country.

Due to the fact that solo trekking is illegal, you must hire a licensed trekking guide to accompany you on the journey.

Similarly, you must obtain a permit from a Nepalese trekking service.

To arrange your journey, use a reputable and certified trekking firm.

Provide your travel agency with all of the relevant personal information and papers for the permit application process.

To hike through the Upper Mustang's restricted area, you must have permissions such as a Restricted Area Permit, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and a TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System) Card.

Upper Mustang Trekking Permits are Required:

To reach the Upper Mustang trekking zone as an international traveler, you must secure three permissions. The descriptions below will provide you with a thorough understanding of each permit:

- Restricted Area Permit

The RAP lets you to enter the Upper Mustang's restricted area. This is a unique permit that cannot be obtained on its own. You must obtain it through a registered trekking organization, such as Himalayan Glacier. It is issued by Nepal's Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Furthermore, it cannot be issued unless at least two foreigners apply at the same time.   

-Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Because the Upper Mustang is located in the Annapurna Conservation Area, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required. In addition, anyone passing through the protected area must have a permit to visit the area. Furthermore, permission can be obtained via the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or from the ACAP counter in Pokhara.

-TIMS (Trekker’s Information Management System) Card

The TIMS card offers information about the trekker's safety as well as tracking their movement. This is also one of the required permits for your Upper Mustang trail adventure. This card can be purchased from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, as well as through TIMS counters in trekking areas. However, if you want to fly to Jomsom and then return, you will not need the TIMS card. However, it is required for anyone planning to explore the region by land.

These are the three essential Upper Mustang Trekking Permits needed to explore the magical Upper Mustang area. To secure these permissions, you must be in the hands of a reputable and recognized trekking company. It is also recommended that you obtain these permissions before beginning your journey for a trouble-free journey.

How Much Do the Upper Mustang Permits Cost?

Each Upper Mustang permit has a distinct permit cost. Furthermore, the permit cost may vary based on the season and duration of the hike. Examine the cost per person in the table below.

Type of Permit Permit Fee

1. Restricted Area Permit   $500 for the first 10 days (An additional $50 for each extra day)

2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit  NPR 3000 (Around $25)

3. TIMS Card   $10 for group trekkers and $20 for individual trekkers

Although this is the updated information, the fees are likely to be changed sometimes. Therefore, it’s better to remain updated about the costs through your trekking agency in advance. 

Details on Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit

Before you go out on your adventure to the Upper Mustang's preserved territory, there are a few things you should know about the Upper Mustang trekking permit requirements. So, read the tips below to discover more about it.

Permits are required: To explore the Upper Mustang region, all visitors must have three important permits: RAP, ACAP, and TIMS Card.

Validity period: Each permit has a particular validity period. RAP has a 10-day validity period that can be extended for an extra cost. The ACAP and TIMS Card, on the other hand, are valid for the duration of your journey.

Non-transferable: Because the permits are non-transferable, no other tourists can use them after they are issued in your name. As a result, all visitors must have their own licenses issued in their names in order to enter Upper Mustang.  

Upper Mustang only: The permits you obtain for your trip to Upper Mustang are only valid in Upper Mustang. If you want to visit other restricted areas, such as Dolpo or Kanchanjunga, you must obtain special permits for those areas.

It must always be with you: The permissions must be presented at several checkpoints along the way. As a result, you must carry it with you during the journey.

It is against the law to hike without a permit: Another crucial point to remember is that entering the region without the proper documentation is unlawful. If you are discovered traveling via the path without the Upper Mustang permits, the authorities may take legal action against you.

When is the best time to Visit Mustang?

Upper Mustang is located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, giving it a superb monsoon trip that is available all year. The key factor to consider is winter, when most citizens leave the capital to avoid the cold and snow. So the best Time to go Mustang is March- to December.

You could trek even in January/February as well, but it will be too cold and guest houses can remain closed due to the winter.